As we progress through the MBA program at Sauder we are blessed by the many resources afforded to us by the Business Career Centre (BCC) – from mentorship opportunities to company information sessions, all provide very valuable insight into different industries and potential careers. There seems to be a recurrent theme throughout however, as many alumni and industry insiders are quick to point out that jobs in Vancouver are very limited, and we’d be wise to look to Calgary or Toronto for better opportunities with higher pay. While I too will admit that in certain industries these markets do look attractive (financial services in Toronto, oil & gas in Calgary), there is no reason to write off Vancouver. Although I have yet to actually land a job in Vancouver post-MBA, I do have 8 years of working experience in the city and fully intend on finding a job here. My exposure to many of the BCC resources thus far has provided me with some great tools to begin the job search, however my action plan is what will actually land me a job:
- Identify a ‘Growing’ Industry: I was fortunate enough to land my last two positions with companies at the infancy stage in growing industries – I joined the Donnelly Group a few years prior to the 2010 Olympics, which proved to be a key turning point in our success. My time with Cactus Club saw huge growth in the ‘casual dining’ segment restaurant market, which I benefitted from tremendously. I plan on spending the next 3 months identifying an industry that I forecast significant growth in within Vancouver over the next 5-10 years.
- Make my Intentions Known: Once I have selected an industry or company that I identify with and can see myself pursuing a career in I intend on making my intentions known to everyone and anyone I come in contact with. While I may potentially run the risk of alienating myself from other opportunities in different sectors, I feel this is a necessary step in the ‘promotions’ process. Despite a booming population, the Vancouver business community is very small and ‘everyone knows everyone.’ Opportunities come from places you least suspect – family, friends, ex-colleagues, etc.
- Immerse myself in the Industry: I plan on making a list of the 10 largest employers within the identified sector and meeting with a representative from each company. Once I have learned the industry and determined where I fit in best, I will begin strengthening my technical skills and experience to raise my value in the eyes of potential employers. I will also utilize the BCC resources to continue the information collection. My course selection will also be based on what subjects are most relevant to the field.
- Hustle/Network/Grind: The final component is the meat and potatoes of the plan – I intend on getting out into the business community and being visible, making contacts and landing a job. I will join all applicable organizations, go to key events, network through existing contacts and utilize my current leads. My prior role blessed me with a long contact list of key people across many industries, all of whom I plan on re-connecting with.